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With thanks to Jade Davies

In this episode, we speak with Jade, a PhD researcher at the University of Manchester, whose work explores social media use and adolescent mental health. Drawing on her experience in autism research and employment studies, Jade offers powerful insights into the realities autistic people face at work — from masking and burnout to discrimination and unmet support needs.

We discuss the structural barriers in diagnosis, the problem with “just getting people into any job,” and why organizational culture must change to foster true neuroinclusion. Jade also reflects on the value of meaningful employment, the diversity of autistic identities, and why assumptions about communication and social skills need challenging.

If you're interested in neurodiversity, workplace inclusion, or the human side of research, this conversation offers both depth and clarity — and practical ideas for how we can all do better.